In a momentous ceremony underscoring Ghana’s commitment to security, justice, and good governance, President John Dramani Mahama has sworn in COP Christian Tetteh Yohunu as the new Inspector General of Police (IGP).
The event, attended by Ministers of State, members of the Council of State, senior officers of the Ghana Police Service, and other distinguished guests, marked a significant transition in the nation’s law enforcement leadership at a time of evolving security challenges.
In his address, President Mahama emphasized the critical role of the Ghana Police Service in maintaining law and order, safeguarding national peace, and upholding the fundamental rights of all citizens.
“The Ghana Police Service is a cornerstone of our democracy. And it plays an indispensable role in safeguarding our peace, ensuring law and order, and protecting the fundamental rights of all our citizens.
“As we all know, security is the foundation of the leadership of the Ghana Police Service, which is of paramount importance. “
President John Dramani Mahama
He acknowledged that COP Yohunu assumes the mantle of leadership at a pivotal moment when Ghana’s security landscape is rapidly evolving, necessitating innovative policing strategies to address emerging threats, including violent crime, cybercrime, and transnational organized crime.
President Mahama underscored the importance of adapting to the changing security environment through intelligence-led policing, community engagement, and the effective deployment of modern technology.
He noted that citizens have high expectations of the police service, seeking professionalism, discipline, and fairness in law enforcement.
“Ghanaians have high expectations of the police service, and rightly so. Our people look to you for protection. They want to see a police service that is not only professional and disciplined but also one that is fair and just.
“They want to be reassured that when they report crimes, they will receive a swift and impartial response. They want to trust that the police service will act in their best interest, free from undue influence and without discrimination”.
President John Dramani Mahama
The President emphasized the need for police officers to be well-trained, well-equipped, and highly motivated to carry out their duties with excellence.
He stressed that trust in law enforcement is essential for effective policing, adding that without public confidence, policing efforts could be severely undermined.
Strengthening Community Policing and Trust
A major theme of President Mahama’s address was the necessity of strengthening community policing to enhance relations between law enforcement officers and the communities they serve.
He asserted that police officers must not be perceived as an intimidating force but as partners in crime prevention and community development.
“The police must be seen not as an intimidating force but as a partner in crime prevention, safety, and development. Officers who serve with empathy, fairness, and respect for human rights will be held in high regard by the communities they protect.”
President John Dramani Mahama
He called for a shift toward proactive policing strategies that prioritize engagement and collaboration with community members to foster greater trust and cooperation.
President Mahama also issued a strong directive against corruption within the police service, stating that unethical practices such as bribery and abuse of power undermine public confidence and weaken the institution’s credibility.
He urged the new IGP to root out corruption at all levels, ensuring that officers uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.
“Corruption in law enforcement undermines justice and weakens public confidence in our security agencies. It is crucial that all forms of unethical behavior, from bribery to the abuse of power, are eradicated.”
President John Dramani Mahama
Furthermore, he emphasized that police officers must be adequately remunerated, properly housed, and provided with necessary healthcare and psychological support to enable them to perform their duties effectively.
A well-motivated police force, he noted, is essential for national security and public safety.
Acknowledgment of Outgoing IGP, Charge to the New IGP
President Mahama took a moment to express gratitude to the outgoing Inspector General of Police, Dr George Akuffo-Dampare for his dedicated service and commitment to maintaining national security.
He acknowledged the contributions made under his leadership and wished him well in his future endeavors.
Turning to COP Christian Tetteh Yohunu, President Mahama encouraged him to lead with vision, fairness, and unwavering dedication.
He reminded the new IGP that leadership is not merely about authority but also about service, inspiration, and commitment to national security and justice.
“To our new IGP, I encourage you to lead with vision, fairness, and unwavering commitment. Leadership is not just about authority; it is about service.
“It is about inspiring those under your command. Know that you have the full support of myself, my administration, and the people of Ghana.”
President John Dramani Mahama
The President expressed confidence in COP Yohunu’s ability to build a police service that upholds justice, respect, and human dignity, ensuring peace and security across the country.
A Commitment to Reforms and Security
President Mahama reaffirmed his government’s commitment to providing the Ghana Police Service with the necessary resources, training, and reforms to enhance their effectiveness.
He assured officers that their welfare and operational needs would remain a priority under his administration.
“To the brave men and women of the Ghana Police Service, I urge you to give your fullest cooperation to your new leader. Your dedication and sacrifices keep our country safe, and this government is committed to supporting you in every way possible.”
President John Dramani Mahama
As Ghana faces increasingly complex security threats, the swearing-in of COP Christian Tetteh Yohunu as IGP signals a new era for the Ghana Police Service, one that prioritizes professionalism, modernization, community engagement, and integrity.
The new IGP now has the formidable task of leading a police force that not only enforces the law but also earns the trust and respect of the people it serves.
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